E4: Our Journey into Photography: The Unexpected Twists That Led Us Here
The Unfiltered Path to Photography: Our Journey Behind the Lens
Ever wonder how photographers really get started? Spoiler alert: it’s rarely a straight path. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing our journeys—from past jobs to the unexpected twists that led us into photography.
We’ve shot a lot—from cringeworthy early sessions to those defining moments when we realized, yep, this is it. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the game, you’ll probably hear a little of your own story in ours. So grab your Diet Coke because we’re getting real about where we started, what we’ve learned, and how we got to where we are today.
Welcome to The Raw Edit
Where we keep it real, raw, and ridiculously fun. We’re two photographers who’ve seen it all—blurry shots, perfect poses, epic travels, and those WTF is this lighting moments. Whether you’re behind the lens, in front of it, or just trying to figure out what the heck RAW files even are, this is the podcast for you.
We’re talking about the good, the bad, and the unfiltered truths of building a photography business that doesn’t just survive—it thrives. Think travel adventures, tips that actually work, behind-the-scenes chaos, and maybe a little tea about what really goes down on shoots. We’re dishing out all the secrets—from nailing your dream shots to running a business that doesn’t make you want to cry into your SD cards. No fluff, no filters, just real talk, a few laughs, and maybe a little chaos.
My Journey: From Military Boots to Camera Lenses
I’m Kellie Rochelle, and my path to photography? Let’s just say it was anything but traditional. When I was a junior in high school, I signed up for the National Guard. My summer before senior year was spent in basic training in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where I quickly learned two things: I do not do well in heat, and keeping my hair up was apparently an impossible mission.
I spent eight years in the National Guard as a dental specialist, working with two dentists and serving as the only one in my state. My time in the medical unit led me to pursue a career in pharmacy, which meant switching my major, tacking on extra years of school, and eventually earning my degree from NDSU.
Fast forward to working in hospital pharmacy for a decade, balancing shifts, kids, and on-call duties. When I was pregnant with my sixth child, Max, my husband and I decided that juggling both our on-call schedules just wasn’t sustainable. I left pharmacy, intending to stay home, but let’s be real—I’m not a domestic person. Cooking and cleaning all day? Hard pass.
Instead, I dove headfirst into photography. I had always been the girl with a camera—even before cell phones. I took online courses, joined workshops, and spent countless hours honing my craft. At first, I photographed my own kids, then friends started asking for photos, and before I knew it, I had a full-blown business. Now, nearly eight years later, I specialize in senior, family, branding, and travel photography.
Sarah’s Journey: From Corporate Life to Full-Time Photography
Unlike Kellie, I always knew I wanted to run a business. I just thought it would be later—like, after retirement. But my husband had a different perspective during COVID. “Why wait?” he asked. “Why not now?”
I spent 21 years in the corporate world working for Monroe Truck Equipment. I managed everything from upfitting plows to drone photography for marketing campaigns. Meanwhile, I was running my photography business on the side, capturing everything from weddings to senior sessions. In 2009, my sister and I even opened a studio, but balancing family, corporate life, and photography became overwhelming. I put photography on hold, focusing on my 9-to-5 while raising my kids.
But photography never really left me. A few years later, I dusted off my camera, started shooting again, and soon, I was back in business. Then COVID hit, and I took the leap—I quit my job in 2021 to go full-time.
Since then, I’ve invested heavily in education, taking courses, learning from top industry leaders, and refining my senior photography experience. I took Ace Fanning’s Senior Experience Workshop, which gave me that aha moment, helping me take my business to the next level. Education and community have been game-changers for me, and I’m a firm believer that surrounding yourself with like-minded photographers can fast-track your success.
The Power of Photography Community
Speaking of community, that’s how Kellie and I met. I first followed her work while on a trip to Sedona for my daughter’s senior session. A few months later, we connected in a photography roundtable, started talking shop on Voxer, and soon became photography besties. Since then, we’ve attended workshops, traveled, and even booked working weekends together to level up our businesses.
Having a photography community is everything. It’s one thing to learn from a coach, but learning from peers who are in the trenches with you? That’s invaluable. You don’t have to do this alone—find your people, lean into education, and keep evolving.
Our Love for Travel
Beyond photography, we both share a love for travel. Kellie takes each of her kids on a one-on-one travel session when they turn 16, combining quality time with adventure. For graduation gifts, she swaps money for experiences—taking her daughter to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Nashville and her son to an NBA game in Minneapolis. Meanwhile, Sarah is a national park junkie, with a passion for landscape photography and exploring new destinations.
We both dream of photographing in places like Greece, Iceland, and Banff. But for now, we’re happy taking on travel sessions across the U.S., documenting seniors, families, and brands in some of the most stunning locations.
Where We’re Headed Next
Photography has taken us on wild journeys, and we’re just getting started. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, we hope our stories remind you that the path to success isn’t always linear. It’s messy, unpredictable, and full of learning curves. But with the right mindset (and maybe a Diet Coke in hand), you can create a photography business that doesn’t just survive—it thrives.
So tell us, where did your journey start? Let’s chat in the comments!
🎧 Hit play and let’s get RAW.
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About Raw Edit
Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.
Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!
🌐 Connect with Us:
Kellie Rochelle Photography
- Website: https://kellierochelle.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellierochellephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellierochellephotography/
Sarah Monson Photography
- Website: https://smonsonphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmonsonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahMonsonPhotography
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